Whether you are curious to know “why Google drive is not always an ideal option” or wondering to find the “best Google drive alternatives”, we have covered you!
Google Drive is a popular and top cloud storage service available in the present era. But even then, people like you still look for alternatives of Google Drive as most struggle to fully understand its features and functionality. Others show concern regarding the pricing, capabilities, performance, and security of Google Drive.
Thankfully, plenty of alternatives are available, and in this article, we will look at top options that are miles ahead of this service. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s examine the 12 best Google Drive alternatives here without further delay!
What Is Google Drive?
It is a cloud storage service automatically connected to a Google account and lets users store and share files from different devices. It is part of Google Workspace (a group of services for teamwork and productivity) and is included in G Suite (a large set of web applications). It has more than 2 billion monthly active users.
Google Drive features famous applications, including Google Docs (for editing documents online), Google Sheets (for working with spreadsheets), Google Meet and Chat (for productive communication), and Google Calendar (for scheduling and workflows).
The platform offers 15 GB of cloud storage space free to each user by default, which is divided between all Google Workspace services. Gmail takes up a major part of this storage space. Besides that, video conference recordings from Google Meet and photos from Google Photos take up enough space. Therefore, users usually feel the need for an upgrade. Google Drive offers up to 2 TB to users at $9.11 per month and 5 TB to businesses at $18.
At this cost, the benefits users enjoy include:
- Users can open up 30+ files within Drive without any application
- Create and edit the files of different types (presentations, text documents, spreadsheets, sketches, and surveys)
- You can share files with just a few clicks
- With a business subscription, users can access Gemini AI, which can be used to create to-do lists, emails, and strategic plans.
- Integration with 5000+ applications and third-party service services
Though everything looks perfect, there are multiple reasons to look for free Google Drive alternatives. Let’s find all those reasons in the next section!
Why Switch From Google Drive?
Like others, Google Drive tries to provide users with the widest and most generalized list of features. But, even then, some serious limitations push the users to look for an alternative of Google drive. Let’s see here in detail what those limitations are:
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Price
Cost is one of the major issues that most people look for when looking for an alternative free. Google Drive provides free 15 GB of cloud storage for occasional photos and documents.
However, as this storage limit is spread across the entire Google account, it can easily be exceeded. In that case, users must purchase premium plans, which they find costly, and search for cheap options. TeraBox stands out as the best free Google Drive alternative, providing you with 1TB of cloud storage for free!
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Security
Users’ major concern with Google Drive is its security. It is not bad, as Google encrypts all folders and files in transit and at rest. The issue is that all the encryption keys are stored on Google’s servers, which hackers, law enforcement, and Google can easily access.
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Compatibility
The major advantage of Google Drive that attracts most users is its integration with other Google tools and support for various file types. However, if you use something other than G Suite, Google Drive may not be the right choice. Therefore, users look for a Google drive alternative tailored to their preferences and work better for them!
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Poor Customer Support
Google’s support system relies on online resources such as forums and help articles for customer support. Therefore, it becomes really hard and tricky to talk to actual people when the users need their help or are stuck somewhere.
Aside from that, Google’s customer support teams take a long time to reply. Consequently, users end up wasting time on different platforms. If you don’t want this to happen to you, switch to a free Google Drive alternative for better service.
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Google’s Ability To Delete And Edit Documents
Have you ever noticed that your documents look different on Google Drive? Or have any of your documents vanished in the air? That happens with most Google Drive users because Google owns the rights to manipulate your documents. And, yes, it was not a joke!
You need to understand that the documents you upload to Google Drive are not only yours. According to the privacy policy, Google Drive has the authority to use, create, modify, host, and distribute your documents on the Google Drive. If it sounds disturbing, it’s the right time to search for a free Google Drive alternative.
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Average Performance
The upload and download performances are not good here, so many users seek a free one. For instance, if you upload larger files, you may have to nap, as they end up on your cloud storage.
Though internet speed affects download and upload speeds, Google Drive cannot utilize them fully in most cases. So, why not discover the best alternative of Google Drive in the next section, which can upload or download your files twice as fast?
12 Best Google Drive Alternatives For 2024
One or two of the above reasons apply to you, right? If so, let’s look at the alternatives to Google Drive that are as good as Google Drive.
But before getting into the details, wait a minute. Review this expanded comparison table if you do not have enough time to read the complete article. It can help you quickly get a better understanding of all the Google Drive alternatives!
| Google Drive Alternatives | Storage
(Free Version) |
Storage
(Paid) |
Best For | Offline Access |
| TeraBox | 1 TB | 2 TB | Uploading larger files (up to 20 GB) | Yes |
| Microsoft OneDrive | 5 GB | 6 TB | Cloud storage | Yes |
| Dropbox | 2 GB | 2 TB | Document management | Yes |
| Box | 10 GB | 100 GB | Collaboration and secure file management | Yes |
| Backblaze | 10 GB | Unlimited personal backup | Device backups | Yes |
| MEGA | 20 GB | 2TB | Secure file syncing and storage | Yes |
| pCloud | 10 GB | 10 TB | Privacy-focused people (who are on a tight budget) | Yes |
| Sync | 5 GB | 2TB | Secure file management | Yes |
| iCloud | 5 GB | 2 TB | Apple fans | Yes |
| NordLocker | 3 GB | 2 TB | Secured file sharing and storage | Yes |
| SpiderOak | 21 days free trial | 5 TB | Creating backups from an unlimited number of devices | Yes |
| ownCloud | Free and open-source | 500 GB | Collaboration and self-hosted file sharing | Yes |
1 TeraBox
With so much data around pictures, videos, and documents, it is normal for your device to run out of storage. In this situation, you may need to switch to a new device with more storage. But that would be an expensive option.
So, switch from Google Drive to TeraBox, which offers 1 TB of free cloud storage space. Yes, you heard it right—1 TB at no cost. It is TeraBox’s selling point, making it the best alternative to Google Drive and differentiating it from other cloud storage services.
TeraBox was launched in 2020, and millions have used it worldwide. Its interface is very easy to use, making sharing, accessing, and viewing files a piece of cake for everyone. TeraBox also visually represents the data and remaining cloud storage space and promises faster downloads.
Price: TeraBox offers massive storage of 2 TB for $3.49/month. With this premium purchase, you can enjoy ultra-fast downloads, save up to 50,000 files and videos at a playback resolution of 1080P, keep the files in a recycle bin for 30 days, control the audio playback speed, edit the photos, and upload the images on your mobile phone.
Main Features:
- Secure Storage Solutions: TeraBox offers its users secured cloud storage and assures them that their files are encrypted to protect them from cyber-attacks. With its robust security measures, you can trust that your sensitive data is safe.
- Backup and Share: You can easily backup and share your files using mobile applications, desktop apps, or the web. If you sync data from one device, the changes will be made to all devices. Therefore, users can access their latest files from anywhere, anytime.
- Affordability and Customer Support: TeraBox is an ideal solution for businesses seeking quality services at competitive prices. Another key point that makes TeraBox stand out is its exceptional customer support. Users can get quick responses from the support team whenever they face technical issues or have any queries.
Pros:
- Real-time collaboration features
- It makes file sharing easy and quick
- 1 TB free cloud storage space
- User-friendly interface
- Higher data security and privacy protection
- Locked box for private storage
Cons:
- Limited free plan functionality
2 Microsoft OneDrive
Google Drive is for Google Docs, slides, and sheets, and Microsoft OneDrive is for Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Microsoft OneDrive offers almost the same features as Google Drive.
With this cloud storage, users can store and share different documents, collaborate, and sync between desktop and cloud. If you have been using Microsoft Word for a long time, then the interface of Microsoft OneDrive will look familiar. The desktop Microsoft OneDrive application is built into Windows, whereas users must download the Google app.
Price: For “Home,” you can get 5 GB cloud storage for free and 6 TB for $99.99 per year. With the “Business” plan, users can get 1 TB for $5 per month (plan 1), unlimited storage space for 5+ users for $10 per month (plan 2), 1 TB for $5 per month (basic plan), or 1 TB for $12.50 per month (standard plan).
Main Features:
- Security and Privacy Features: Though OneDrive’s security features are similar to Google Drive’s, Microsoft OneDrive’s Personal Vault offers an extra layer of protection. So, the files you put there will require authentication via face, fingerprint, PIN, or code sent via SMS or email.
- Access and Edit: Users can access and edit their files from all devices anywhere. Windows applications can access and share files from Windows devices like HoloLens, Surface Hub, or Xbox.
- Separate Mailbox: OneDrive provides a separate drive for your mailbox, 15 GB for the free version, and 50 GB for the paid plan.
Pros:
- Good value for the money
- Quick and easy syncing
- Get premium services with a Microsoft 365 subscription
- File offloading anytime
Cons:
- Limited upload size
- Version history recovery is available only for the paid versio
3 Dropbox
It is another great alternative to Google Drive, which is used for uploading, storing, and sharing files over the internet. Dropbox provides its users with a dedicated folder on their devices that syncs with the cloud automatically.
It ensures that all files in the folder will be accessible from any device (as long as the application is installed). The cloud storage system supports various file types, including images, videos, documents, etc. Plus, with Paper (a tool in Dropbox), you can collaborate in real-time on your documents.
Price: Users can get 2 GB with the free plan and 2 TB at $9.99 per month (with the paid plan). Professionals get 3 TB at $16.58 per month, businesses can get 9 TB at $15 per month, and companies get 15 TB at $24 per month.
Main Features:
- Security: Various features, such as expiring links, password protection, and download permissions, ensure that users can securely share files without falling into traps.
- Integration: Users can connect their Dropbox account with other workflow tools like Canva, Slack, and Microsoft Word. Resultantly, they will not have to switch between different apps.
- File Recovery: In the present era, where system failure or data loss is common, Dropbox provides a hassle-free and quick recovery process (which does not involve any complicated manual connections).
Pros:
- Available on all operating systems and devices
- Paid users can get offline access
- Provides automated backup on the cloud
- Users can get digital signature (but at additional cost)
Cons:
- File sharing with external parties can be tedious and tough
- Limited search capabilities and storage (for free plan)
4 Box
The Box is an incredible online cloud content management service for individuals and businesses. It is one of the original players in the cloud storage space and has been in the game for a long time, even before Microsoft and Apple. Therefore, it is regarded as one of the best Google Drive alternatives.
Box provides a wide range of features and is accessible from different platforms. The platform stands out because of its business packages. The storage space focuses on syncing the files within the dedicated folders and does not back up entire hard drives or systems.
Price: The business starter package offers 100 GB for $10 monthly. The business, business plus, and enterprise packages provide unlimited storage space at $17.30, $28.70, and $40.30, respectively. The Enterprise Plus plan also offers unlimited storage space, which can be customized.
Main Features:
- Polished and Straightforward Interface: Though the interface seems basic, it is polished and easier to use. The simple design takes the users to mobile applications for iOS and Android, making file access easier.
- Full Integration: Box is fully integrated into macOS and Windows. The syncing process is fast and responsive. Plus, you can easily view all of your files’ recent changes.
- Auto-Deleted Feature: With this feature, users can set some of their folders and files to go away at the set time and date.
Pros:
- Deeper OS integration
- Excellent admin tools
- Top security protection with e-signature
- Simple and quick for sharing documents
Cons:
- It can get costly
- Limited consumer options
5 Backblaze
Backblaze is an easier-to-use backup solution and an ideal choice if you are looking for a cheap option. Backblaze will quickly recover your files or mail you a USB if you have lost data.
It is a mirror, meaning if you add files to your desktop, it will copy them to the cloud. Likewise, if you delete any of the files from the desktop, Backblaze will do the same. Backblaze backs up the data automatically, and users can schedule the backup when they like. The platform uses auto threading and throttling to improve performance. All of your files are backed up and stored encrypted.
Price: Backblaze has one pricing plan: $9 per month, $99 for a year, and $189 for two years. Users can get unlimited cloud storage space.
Main Features:
- Versioning: The file versioning by default is 30 days. Therefore, users can keep multiple versions of a single file. After 30 days, the oldest version of the file will be deleted. Users cannot change this option when they are on a trial plan.
- Inherit Backup: The feature makes the backup between old and new computers easier. Users can access it via a desktop application. Remember that it will not transfer the data to your new laptop but will create a new backup containing “old-inactive” and old laptop names in the file name.
- Locate My Computer: This feature helps users find their computer if it gets lost or stolen. The “Map This” option also allows users to trace the computer’s location.
Pros:
- Simplified user experience
- Unlimited backup space at an affordable price
- Excellent security and privacy
- Share files from the backup with both registered and unregistered users
Cons:
- Limited features and device limitations
- There is no mobile backup
6 MEGA
MEGA is an amazing cloud storage service that focuses on security and provides excellent end-to-end encryption. Its free plan offers tons of free storage (20 GB). The platform aids in collaboration with private and group chats, file sharing, and file versioning.
Users can set up mobile and desktop applications to sync automatically with the cloud. MEGA does not offer all the document editing and productivity options Google Drive offers. So, it can only stream files from the MEGA cloud.
Price: The Pro lite package provides 400 GB of cloud storage for $55, Pro 1 offers 2 TB of storage for $109, Pro 2 offers 8 TB for $218, and Pro 3 offers 16 TB for $327 per year.
Main Features:
- Ease of Use: MEGA’s interface design, with its bold reds and dark greys, looks attractive and makes everything easier to notice. Plus, its darker mode is easier on the eyes.
- Security: MEGA takes pride in security, one of its best features. The platform offers end-to-end and zero-knowledge encryption. Unlike others, MEGA does not charge for its encryption services.
- File Sharing and Syncing: Users can access the full file-sharing feature. They can share files and folders by sending links and sharing encrypted files.
Pros:
- Previews for media and documents
- Zero-knowledge encryption
- Remarkable security protocols
- User-friendly and clean interface
Cons:
- Pain plans are a bit pricey
- Poor customer support
7 pCloud
It was launched in 2013 and has shown tremendous growth quickly. pCloud assures fast file syncing, offers excellent security features, and has a dedicated media player, making it an exceptional choice for business and personal usage.
The services are easier to use, and signing in requires only an email address and password. You can also sign up with Facebook, Google, or Apple account. Then, you can download the pCloud Drive on the system, which will automatically sync your data.
Price: The user can get 10 TB cloud storage space for life at $1190 (one-time payment) with an individual plan, 10 TB space at $1499 (one-time fee) with a family plan, and 2 TB of storage per user with the business pro plan at $19.98 per month.
Main Features:
- Speed: pCloud’s uploading and downloading speed is impressive, much better than OneDrive but a little lower than Dropbox.
- pCloud Crypto Feature: This feature lets users protect some of their data with end-to-end encryption. Here, the user is the boss and controls who has access to data.
- Public Folder: The folder can create direct links to files and host static HTML web pages.
Pros:
- It provides you access across all devices
- Save space on the hard drive with virtual pCloud
- Users can easily store the files from other online platforms
- Sharing and collaboration is easier
Cons:
- Various useful features have not been included in the free version
- EFH requires an independent subscription
8 Sync
The platform offers various features, excellent security, and ease of use at a pocket-friendly price. Sync generates the encryption keys locally, so it cannot access users’ files or data. Also, the app is reasonably user-friendly, and getting started with Sync is a piece of cake.
File versioning is another remarkable addition. Sync saves the previous version of all of your files on the server. Though it is not an excellent option for collaboration like competitors, it is a great choice to keep the files safe.
Price: Sync offers 5 GB for free, 2 TB for $8 with the solo basic plan, and 6 TB for $20 with the solo professional plan per month. Teams can get 1 TB for $6 with the Pro Teams standard plan and unlimited storage for $15 with the Pro Teams unlimited plan per month.
Main Features:
- Zero-Knowledge Provider: This feature gives users complete control over their data. They can only manage the encryption keys and access and decrypt their data.
- File Size Limit: No limit on file sizes. Users can also create a cold storage vault to lock certain files and prevent them from syncing across other devices.
- File Sharing And synchronization are where Sync shines. Users can sync files by adding them to the Sync.com folder or upload the data manually via a mobile application or web panel.
Pros:
- Excellent security at a competitive price
- Unlimited file sizes
- Clear privacy policy
- 365-day versioning
Cons:
- Slow syncing speed
- There is no schedule for vault backups
9 iCloud
Whether you use an iPhone or own another Apple device, you already have an Apple account. Apple encourages users to back up their data and files using iCloud, a document management platform.
Google Drive works equally well for Android and Apple devices, but iCloud works best for Apple devices. The platform provides a wide range of excellent features, including access to music, calendars, photos, documents, and contacts. It is built into every iOS device.
Price: Users can enjoy 5 GB free cloud storage purchase. There are three options for switching to a paid plan. You can get 50 GB storage space at $0.99, 200 GB at $ 2.99, and 2 TB at $9.99 monthly.
Main Features:
- Automatic Backups: Once you have enabled the backup, iCloud will automatically perform wireless backups of data photos and device settings without user intervention.
- Security: The platform is encrypted, protecting your data from prying eyes. Users can also enable Advanced Data Protection for more safety.
- Integration: The integration with Apple devices is exceptional and easy to use. This way, you can get more space on local devices if needed.
Pros:
- Excellent Apple mobile desktop and mobile integration
- Polished user interface
- Better sharing options
- Easier to store larger files
Cons:
- Limited options for power users
- Needs to add advanced features
10 NordLocker
NordLocker started as a system for encrypting and storing files on a computer. Later, it became a cloud storage platform that provides end-to-end encryption. It encrypts and stores data in ” Lockers ” folders that can be created on the computer. Users can also create lockers that reside in the new NordLocker Cloud.
NordLocker lets users open their files in the application without decrypting them. Users can also easily share files with other NordLocker users. The platform supports Windows, iOS, macOS, and Android. Web access is also available and can be used without any application.
Price: NordLocker provides free 3 GB of cloud storage, 500 GB at $2.99, and 2 TB at $6.99 monthly. Both paid programs provide unlimited end-to-end encryption, secure file sharing, and email support.
Main Features:
- Ease Of Use: It has an intuitive interface and provides great help during the setup process. The assistance includes PDF guides and tutorials. There is also an application for Android users, but the iOS version is under development.
- Speed: NordLocker has exponentially improved its uploading and downloading speed, so you won’t have to wait any longer!
- Zero-Knowledge Encryption: NordLocker owns the zero-knowledge encryption policy. So, the platform cannot decrypt the files (unless there is a reason to do so). Also, only the user will have an encrypted key, so only the user can unlock the files.
Pros:
- Multiple sync methods
- Part of the NordVPN bundle
- There is no restriction on file size or file type
- Excellent file synchronization speed
Cons:
- There are no collaboration features
- File recovery features are absent
11 SpiderOak
SpiderOak has a very strong reputation in the market. The platform is popular for its useful features and remarkable security protections. The service features a zero-knowledge policy, encryption, and a clear privacy statement.
SpiderOak gives you greater control over the backup process with proxy setting, scheduling, and letting you back up data from multiple devices. The platform uses the block-level transfer algorithm. Therefore, changing the file will only upload the parts where you made the changes. It conserves the computer’s resources.
Also, the backup comes with incredible file-sharing functionality, which lets users create various “share rooms.” The users can also invite other people and get access to specific files.
Price: The platform offers 150 GB for $6, 400 GB for $11, 2 TB for $14, and 5 TB for $29 per month. You can also get a free 21-day trial.
Main Features:
- File Backup and Restoration: Mobile and image-based backups are missing, but SpiderOakrs has various restoration options. The platform performs continuous backups by default, but you can also schedule them. SpiderOak can back up a 10 GB file within 10 minutes.
- Security is the area where SpiderOak shines like a star. The platform uses solid encryption to protect files in transit and at rest. Moreover, SpiderOak takes multiple measures to ensure that your data remains safe in case of an attack.
- Interface: The platform provides a clean and easy-to-use interface. Creating and backing up folders and files is simple and easy.
Pros:
- Stronger privacy features
- Supports countless computers for one account
- It is easy to navigate and setup
- Value for money
Cons:
- Multi-factor authentication is absent
- Do not offer mobile applications anymore
12 OwnCloud
OwnCloud is an open-source data syncing and sharing platform that has made file storage easier on the cloud. The data remains available on all devices and can be shared without any hassle. The platform uses state-of-the-art cryptographic measures to protect the data.
The platform allows users to specify the synchronized sync folder with their account. Therefore, the updated version will be uploaded automatically if you make any file changes. You can also create as many users as you want and assign them storage, resulting in a family cloud. The other plus is that users cannot review each other’s files. You can access it from anywhere, but an active internet connection is required.
Price: The platform provides 1000 GB of secured cloud storage space for teams at $14.28, and single users can get 500 GB for $16.48.
Main Features:
- Ease of Use: It is easier to use even for those who are not tech-savvy. OwnCloud’s user-friendly interface lets users share files easily and securely with other team members.
- Flexible Cloud Solution: It is a flexible cloud solution. You can customize it per your needs. Therefore, it is considered one of the best options for businesses of different sizes and types.
- Compatibility: The platform is 100% compatible with the existing infrastructure and will not require any changes. Therefore, it will be a cost-effective solution for businesses of every size.
Pros:
- User-friendly layout
- Affordable pricing plans
- Access ownCloud from anywhere
- Easier file sharing
Cons:
- Limited storage
- Performance issues
Why TeraBox Stands Out As The Best Alternative To Google Drive?
TeraBox offers free plans with 1 TB of storage space and paid plans with 2 TB of cloud storage. The free storage and affordable pricing make TeraBox the best Google Drive alternative, and its user-friendly interface also contributes to its popularity.
The interface is convenient and offers an intuitive layout, making file management easier. The clean dashboard lets you organize the files into different categories or folders. With this organized structure, users can easily maintain their small workspace and easily navigate the files.
In addition, users can easily back up their files directly within the platform. This feature protects data in case of accidental deletion or system failures, giving users real peace of mind. So, why switch from Google Drive to TeraBox now?
TeraBox manages your files using advanced technology. It includes sophisticated encryption for data management and utilizes robust security protocols to fight security threats or hacking.
SSL encryption protects data sent over the Internet. The security team monitors users’ data on the platform and takes quick action in case of suspicious activity or malware attacks.
In addition, three certifications make TeraBox a reliable, trustworthy, and safe platform. So, what do you need more? Make a smart decision today by switching from Google Drive to TeraBox and enjoy 1 TB for free!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is There A Good Alternative To Google Drive?
Yes, TeraBox is the best alternative to Google Drive. The app offers 1 TB with a free plan and 2 TB with a paid plan, among other excellent features. The other plus is that TeraBox is completely safe because of its robust security protocols, SSL encryption, and sophisticated encryption. Also, its team members always take quick action if any unfortunate incident happens.
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Why Is Google Drive Failing?
Google Drive is failing because of insufficient storage space and an unstable network connection with the system or computer. Besides, Google’s backup and sync features do not work well, and Google Drive does not support file uploading items.
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Does TeraBox Offer 1TB Free For a Lifetime?
Yes, TeraBox offers you 1TB at no cost. You can upload up to 500 files in your free TeraBox account. Once you have deleted these files, they will be permanently deleted after ten days, and after that, you can upload new files. Uploading and downloading speeds can be an issue, but users can easily fix this by shifting to a premium account.
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Does TeraBox Leaks Data?
TeraBox ensures the files remain safe and intact through durable security measures and cutting-edge technology. Encryption methods manage your data and make your crucial files unreachable by unauthorized users.
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Which Cloud Storage Is Best for Free?
TeraBox, Microsoft OneDrive, iCloud, MEGA, Sync, Amazin Drive, Box, and Dropbox are a few of the best free Google Drive alternatives. You can pick any of these or check here for best cloud storage 2024, and they are all easy and secure to use!
Conclusion
In the present era, the “cloud” is as crucial in our lives as the morning coffee. Therefore, it is no wonder that most of us always search for storage solutions to back up our crucial data. Though Google Drive was once a top and the most popular choice, it is not everyone’s choice. Therefore, many search for alternatives to Google Drive that are better tailored to their preferences and needs.
Searching for the best Google Drive alternatives, we found the best options in TeraBox, Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, Box, Backblaze, MEGA, and pCloud. You can choose the one based on your needs. So, what do you need more?
